Oakland’s KTOP uses JVC HD cameras in the studio

KTOP-DT, a government access station in Oakland, CA, is using JVC’s GY-HD250 ProHD cameras equipped with studio adaptors as the station’s primary studio cameras. KTOP also uses the GY-HD250 cameras in the field for community and government events.

Will Washington, chief engineer at KTOP, said they like the JVC cameras’ light weight and full complement of camera components. “The GY-HD250 color balances perfectly through all lighting variations, the video gain can be taken up to 18db and the camera continues to produce exceptional images."

KTOP produces several in-studio productions with the GY-HD250s, which include the National Gallery, a Q&A format featuring local artists. In the field, the station does a switch feed with the GY-HD250 cameras and records to SD. They plan to convert to HD in the future. KTOP’s remote setup includes two JVC decks (primary and backup) for the switched feed.

“We also load each GY-HD250 camcorder with DVCAM tapestock, which works great for the director in a multi-cam shoot when isolated cut-aways are needed,” he said.

In addition to broadcasting original programming with the GY-HD250s, KTOP also provides coverage of City Council, Council Committee, and other city agency meetings.